News of Wilson’s immediate departure has surprised many in the City. He has held this role for the past six years, and no permanent replacement has been announced.
In a statement Aviva says both Wilson, and the board, agreed it was time for “new leadership to take the group to the next phase of its development.”
Wilson will remain on gardening leave until April next year to assist with the transition. It is understood he will walk away with a pay and benefits package worth £6.5m.
Aviva says both external and internal candidates will be considered for the role. Until a successor is appointed non-executive chairman Sir Adrian Montague will assume executive responsibilities.
Wilson was appointed chief executive of Aviva in January 2013. Aviva says that under his leadership the company has been reshaped to significantly improve its financial performance and balance sheet strength.
During this turnaround the group has been streamlined from 28 markets to 14, grown its operating profit, and strengthened its balance sheet with a Solvency II surplus of £11bn as of June 2018.
However the company faced criticism after a decision by Aviva to cancel its preference shares. This decision was later overturned after a backlash from shareholders.
Montague says: “The board would like to thank Mark for what he has achieved.”
But he adds: “There is much further to go in accelerating our strategic development and enhancing shareholder value.
“Our priority is to ensure, with our new chief executive, that we have the right strategy, focus , capabilities and leadership.”
